How to check which version of Android is running on your device

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If you own an Android device, you might want to know which version of Android is running on it. That could be because a new app is only supported by the latest versions, or you might be wondering if the hot new feature you read about is going to be coming to your device.

It could also be that you’ve read about some security issues and wondered if your phone has the fixes for mitigation. Whatever the reason, it’s easy to check which version of Android your system is running, as well as updating it to the latest version.

We’ll show you how to get the information you need.

Here’s how to check which version of Android you are running

Image: KnowTechie

The first point of call is the Settings app. You can get to this either by hitting your app drawer and finding the gear icon saying Settings on it or by pulling down your notification tray and tapping on the gear icon.

1. Scroll down until you find System and tap on it
   

   Image: KnowTechie

2.  Then scroll down again until you see System Update. That should tell you what version of Android you’re on
   

   Image: KnowTechie

3. Tap on that if you want more information on which version you have installed, or if you want to see if there are updates available for your phone
   

   Image: KnowTechie

4. For reference, here’s a list of all the Android versions and their naming scheme

Now you know how to find out which version of Android your device is running. It’s the same process if the device is a phone, a tablet, or an Android TV box.

What do you think? Surprised by how easy it is to check out your version? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Joe Rice-Jones

Maker, meme-r, and unabashed geek with nearly half a decade of blogging experience at KnowTechie, SlashGear and XDA Developers. If it runs on electricity (or even if it doesn't), Joe probably has one around his office somewhere, with particular focus in gadgetry and handheld gaming. Shoot him an email at joe@knowtechie.com.